For the past 20 years, Mill Valley native Sue Gardner has run the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy’s Park Stewardship program, connecting people to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), the nation’s largest urban national park.

The GGNRA contains more endangered species than any other National Park in continental North America. This is certainly cause for celebration, but also for concern. Take part in the Big Year and get to know these species while helping them recover.

Two air tour operators got a provisional green light for low-flying air tours over the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Point Reyes. Meanwhile, a long-term Air Tour Management Plan is in the works. As the October 21 public comment deadline approaches, some environmentalists say air tours have no place in parks, while tour operators say they offer access to people who might not otherwise see the parks.

Ever since an epiphany with pickleweed in Oakland as a kid, Asha Setty has wanted to learn as much as possible about native plants. She started working for the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy more than 12 years ago as an intern, and now she helps get the word out about projects happening at GGNRA.

In May 2009, the Bay Area--and the nation--lost one of its most eloquent and effective advocates for open space preservation and access. Brian O'Neill, superintendent of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) since 1986, died of complications from heart surgery...

On Friday, May 29, the National Park Service and friends of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) will gather to celebrate the life and legacy of Brian O'Neill, who died from complications due to heart surgery on May 13. Brian was the superintendent of GGNRA for 22 years, and was revered by many for his dedication to getting people out into the park.